Each Christmas season we have this argument about keeping Jesus in the season and saying, “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays.”  While i am in the “Merry Christmas” camp, I need to remember that Jesus came for everyone, that his love extends to all the people.  What I mean with “Merry Christmas” may not be what others hear or understand.  Perhaps a “Blessed Christmas” is a better greeting.  Then, however, we might run the risk of someone else complaining about not having any blessings at Christmas.  I remember one day when I was ringing a bell for the Salvation Army.  I said my “Merry Christmas” and the response was a string of profanities and a diatribe against the commercialization of Christmas.  My only response was, “Jesus is coming and it will get better.”  A surprised look crossed the face of the man in front of me and then he agreed and went on his way.  The other shoppers around us had given us a wide berth.  Yet, on came over and announced that indeed Jesus was coming  so all would be right with the world.  Jesus came at Christmas for all the shoppers at Publix and in the mall and across the world.  Jesus came to love us all.  This season is for the world.  Read Romans 15:7-13 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Pastor Ed